Can’t connect to Wi-Fi since it's not listed in the available networks

Scenario:

You are trying to connect to Wi-Fi but you can’t do so because your Wi-Fi name or SSID is not in the list of available networks.  What should you do?

Solutions:

Below are some of the reasons why this happens and the troubleshooting steps you can try to fix the concern.
  • Power - Verify that your router is ON and the Power light (Linksys logo) shows solid white.  Someone might have accidentally unplugged the cable from the outlet.
 
  • Network refresh - If your router is already ON but the SSID is still not detected, powercycle it to refresh connection.  To do this, power OFF the router by unplugging the power cord and wait for about 10 seconds before plugging it back in.  Make sure that the Power light shows solid white before reconnecting a Wi-Fi device. 
 
  • Distance - If you are far from the Linksys router, try moving closer to see if you might have been out of range.
 
  • Device specific issue - Check if the device you are trying to connect can detect other Wi-Fi because it could be an issue with your computer’s Wi-Fi adapter or the phone’s Wi-Fi capability.  If so, check with the product’s manufacturer.
 
  • Isolation - Check if other Wi-Fi devices can detect the SSID to verify what is causing the issue.
 
  • Wireless settings - Check the wireless settings by opening the router’s web-based setup page then go to Wi-Fi Settings > Wireless.  Make sure that the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands are set to ON and the Broadcast SSID for both frequencies are Yes.

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  • Channels - You can also test different wireless channels.

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  • Firmware update - Firmware updates fix bug issues on a router.  Check the firmware and consider performing an update.  To learn how to update the firmware of the Linksys router, click here.
 
  • Reset the router - Consider performing a reset and check if the default SSID will be detected afterwards.
NOTE:  Resetting the Linksys router will make it go back to its factory defaults.  You need to reconfigure if you want to personalize the settings again.

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